[boss1b]

quick question.... anybody know what size the rocker studs are on a '70 429? are they 3/8 or 7/16's?

thanks!

[nevermind]

I think it depends on what application the heads are used for...my set of 2 stock never rebuilt 4 barrel plain Jane 429 heads are 7/16 shoulder's where the rocker ball is placed, but the threaded area is 3/8's fine thread, for the adjustable valve train...I've seen Cobra Jet heads with the larger 7/16 fine thread...Probably aftermarket rocker studs have also gone to the 7/16 size as well...These heads really like the new roller valve train with the jam nuts...have put quite a few sets on (3) on different engine combo's...Haven't head any problem with the 3/8 fine thread rocker studs...again remember the rocker ball is on the 7/16 shoulder.

I think I remember, that those early '9er's had the heavy cast iron rockers...not good for hi revs...okay for regular old-man driving...too heavy...install guide plates and a good set of aluminum roller rockers...do your homework...it was one of the reasons Ford went to the non adjustable lighter valve train...too many broken and bent pushrods...with the heavy valve rockers...Had a 71 Torino Super Cobra Jet when I was young... I sure loved that car,...my insurance company loved me for the high premiums...lol

For hi revs...try and locate the larger 7/16 threaded stud, similar, though not the same as Chevy rat motor...it's been a while since I've done those heads...4-5 yrs?...hope this helps...what's your plans on the engine? What's it going into? Cheers!

[boss1b]

Thanks for the advice! I have a '70 Cobra Torino. I am the 3rd owner. The 2nd owner blew up the Cobra motor back in the early 80's. he replaced it w/a 351, which he blew up. This is a non-cobra 429. motor was sitting in car when I got it. just sitting, not bolted down, no trans, etc... basket case. I got it up and running, drove it a bit. It has now been sitting for 4-5 yrs. just getting back to it. it is non adjustable valve train, replace push rods to adjust. I am taking it slow on the motor now, starting w/ lightening up the valve train. that's the plan, the mechanics work hasn't started yet!

Thanks for the advice!

[nevermind]

So, the heads are 429, what is the casting..D0---? or D3---? non adjustable cast iron or stamped rockers?...screw in rocker studs or pedestal style with bolts?... If memory serves, 1973 '9er's went with the pedestal style rockers...there are roller kits for those as well...I think they used the large sparkplugs for all the '9er's...sounds like it'll be a cool ride when it's completed...Cheers!